The U.S. State Department has approved the sale of $785 million in bombs to the United Arab Emirates for the U.S.-led campaign against Islamic State militants in Syria and Iraq, the Pentagon said on Tuesday. The UAE has taken part in air strikes against Islamic State in Syria, although U.S. officials would like Gulf Arab allies to expand their contributions to the air campaign. Lawmakers have 30 days to block the sale, although such action is rare since deals are carefully vetted before any formal notification. The UAE's Al Dhafra Air Base hosts about 3,500 U.S. troops and fighter and reconnaissance aircraft used against the militants. The proposed sale includes 14,640 bombs and guidance kits, along with other munitions.

Source: Thanhnien News July 19, 2016 22:07 UTC